Spyware was in headlines for the first time in 1999 when a freeware game called “ Elf Bowling" circulated with spying software along with it. Since then spywares are creating a havoc in the computer world. Some of the downloadable software comes with a licensing agreement that a spyware program will be installed along with the requested software. But most of us do not go through the agreement properly.

Spyware exists as independent executable programs. These malicious software have the ability to monitor keystrokes, change the default home page on the Web browser, read cookies, scan files on the hard drive, install other spyware programs and even spy other applications, such as chat programs or word processors. The spywares continuously relay this information back to the person who is spying. He will either use it for advertising/marketing purposes or sell the information to another party.

Steps of protecting your computer against spywares

Protecting against spywares is very essential to safeguard personal identity and other vital information. There are four essential steps that are essential to safeguard your computer against this malicious software.

* Updating the operating system regularly

* Installing an anti virus software and updating it regularly

* Utilizing the firewall software

* Utilizing the anti spyware software

Regularly updating of the operating system

It is always essential to install all security related programs as soon as possible. One of the best ways to do it is by utilizing the automatic update option in the computer. But the problem with this is if the computer components are not genuine but pirated ones, then the automatic updating of the operating system may work. So one has to buy genuine parts and software and keep updating regularly

Installing anti virus software

Anti virus software prevents viruses from getting attached to the programs in the computer and prevent them from corrupting the files. Many reliable anti virus software are available some of which are downloadable for free from the net. But one should regularly update the antivirus software to prevent danger from newer virus threats.

The Firewall utility

Hackers use viruses and Trojan Horses to find unprotected computers and access them to delete information, steal personal information or corrupt the files. Firewall security prevents these hackers from doing these. Three types of firewall security are available

* Hardware routers: for home networks connected to internet

* Wireless routers: for wireless network

* Software firewalls: for single computers

The Anti spyware software

The antispyware software protects the computer from those spying the web browsing habits of the victim, will prevent unwanted pop up windows and prevent uninitiated changes in the computer settings.